Brains & Bruises Blog

where stories of roller skates and science converge

Hello, and thanks for checking out this blog! At first (scoring) pass, skates and science might not seem like they have much in common. But in this series, neuroscientist and Assistant Professor, Dr. Liz Engler-Chiurazzi, or should we say, Sara Tonin, relays the stories of their roller derby and research journeys, sharing tips, tricks, and pearls of hard- and sometimes painfully-earned wisdom about how to be a badass in the lab, in life, and on the track. So check out our posts in the Blog tab encouraging you to “Get Low”, “Fall Small”, “Practice Jamnesia”, and more as you navigate your own journey to roller derby stardom, scientific success, and fulfillment however you define it.

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Our Story

The Brains & Bruises blog was founded in 2020 by Dr. Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Engler-Chiurazzi/ Sara Tonin as a pandemic project while her laboratory was shut down. In it, they chronicle their roller derby and research journies with the goal of improving science literacy and accessibility, diversifying the STEM workforce, promoting mental toughness, and supporting participation in this empowering sport. Click on the Our Story tab to learn more.

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